Sony’s next console will be more focused on expanding the options for how one plays than on delivering a prettier, faster experience. At least, that’s what a report from Japan’s Nikkei news outlet reported today.

Even though the hardware is slated to trump what we currently have in the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Wii U, the focus is less about visual upgrades and more about interconnectivity between the console and mobile devices (presumably indicating the Vita and/or smart phones). The former ties into Sony’s proposed naming scheme (orbis, meaning circle, and vita, meaning life. Get it?), as well as its fascination with multi-screen support, Vita integration, and cross-play gaming. A focus on capability over visual fidelity further fits into the system’s speculated price tag, which is easier on the pocket book than the PS3’s was at launch.

The same source also indicated that Sony’s intent with the new console is to provide a multimedia “nerve center” for a household. This isn’t the first time they’ve espoused that philosophy either. The PS3’s Cell architecture was supposed to proliferate throughout the electronics world, allowing for total interconnectivity between one’s devices. Between that, the Internet, and Blu-ray, the PlayStation 3 was also supposed to be a multimedia center in a box.

As of now, this could all be misinformed speculation, but the clock on such things is winding down. February 20 is around the bend. So, we may have to wait for a couple of weeks before we’ll know for sure.